Senior Speakers

The 2022-2023 senior speaker series continued on February 20. It featured eight members of the Class of 2023: Ellie Collier, Bryn Grant, Olivia Horowitz, Morgan Maglieri, Cambell Rosow, Caleb Attianese, Owen Shiffman, and Daniel Zola.

Ellie Collier, a three-year senior from Darien, Connecticut, talked about how she has grown as a person at Suffield, learning not to listen to the negative voice in her head when it crops up. She said, “Suffield has taught me so much and I am grateful for the time I’ve had here. The voices in my head still remain, but with the guidance of those around me, I’ve been able to grow and will continue to.”

Bryn Grant, a three-year senior from Ridgefield, Connecticut, spoke about growing up as the middle child in her family. She said, “I still will always say that middle children are underrated and looked past, but I realize that without a middle child as the core and glue, the family just doesn’t work. My family is the most important thing to me so I am proud to be right in the ‘middle.’”

Olivia Horowitz, a three-year senior from New Canaan, Connecticut, gave advice to Suffield’s underclassmen, saying, “I would advise all Suffield students to take part in all the things this place has to offer because time really does fly by and before you know it you’ll be a senior, standing on this podium and smiling when you spot the faces of your friends, knowing that no matter where life takes you, they will somehow be a part of your story, too.”

Morgan Maglieri, a four-year senior from Southborough, Massachusetts, talked about her relationship with her little sister, Ava. She said, “While the days feel long, the weeks fly by. As seniors we are constantly reminded of how finite our time at Suffield is. This is why it is so important to appreciate every minute of it and specifically to take advantage of the time you have left with those you care about. I know I cherish every moment I get to spend with my sister, and I feel lucky to have recognized this.”

Cambell Rosow, a four-year senior from Fairfield, Connecticut, spoke on the topic of regret after losing her grandfather in 2017. She said, “Regret is an overwhelming and powerful feeling; you never want to look back on an experience and believe you had missed an opportunity. So, spread love, kindness, and support always.”

Caleb Attianese, a four-year senior from East Granby, Connecticut, talked about the influence his family members have had on his development. He said, “Today I’d like to use this time to show my appreciation to my parents for being such a great influence in my life... My mom truly cares about me and all of her hard work inspires me to do the best that I can. My father touched so many people in his life and I strive to do the same.”

Owen Shiffman, a four-year senior from West Hartford, Connecticut, spoke about transitioning from a day student to a boarder this year. He said, “Our family made the decision to move from my childhood home in West Hartford. The move has been bittersweet for me but thanks to my two roommates Ryan and Declan, I have been able to experience Suffield from a boarder’s perspective. Becoming a boarder has many positives to it. There is never a dull moment in the dorm.”

Daniel Zola, a two-year senior from New York City, New York, talked about socially pushing himself out of his comfort zone in an effort to find himself and his place at Suffield. He said, “The people I befriended made a home for me, and I hope you can do the same for your peers. Inclusion is having a seat at the table, while belonging is having your voice heard.”

The senior speaker series is a valuable Suffield Academy tradition and capstone part of the Leadership Program. It is a weekly highlight in our community.

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